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5 Ingredient Lemon Bars

These lemon bars combine a buttery shortbread crust with a tangy lemon custard, creating a delightful, bakery-worthy treat that’s perfect for sharing.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 1 cup salted butter, sliced
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
For the lemon custard
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup lemon juice Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor.

Method
 

Preheat and Prepare
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over the sides for easy removal.
Make the Crust
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of sliced butter, 2 cups flour, and 1/2 cup sugar. Use a pastry cutter or food processor to mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
Bake the Crust
  1. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden.
Prepare the Lemon Layer
  1. While the crust bakes, whisk together 1 1/2 cups sugar and 1/4 cup flour in another bowl.
  2. Add 4 eggs and 1 cup lemon juice, whisking until smooth and completely combined.
Combine and Bake
  1. Pour the lemon mixture over the hot crust, spreading it evenly.
  2. Return to the oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggles.
Cool and Serve
  1. Let the bars cool completely at room temperature.
  2. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a classic finish.

Notes

For cleaner slices, chill the pan for an hour before slicing and warm the knife under hot water between cuts. Tent lightly with foil if the center browns before setting.